Comparison Modeling between Excel and PowerPivot

Using the xVelocity engine without the PowerPivot add-in:

Import millions of rows from multiple data sources: Relationships that exist in the external data source can be detected and imported. Filtering during multi-table import is not supported, meaning the user will not be able to filter to row and column level granularity as part of the import operation

Import OData data feeds

Create relationships between data from different sources, and between multiple tables

Create implicit calculated fields (previously called ‘implicit measures’) – calculations created automatically when you add a numeric field to the Values drop zone of the Field List

Manage data connections

Using the xVelocity with the PowerPivot add-in:

Row and column level filtering during data import: The user can import data from multiple tables in both Excel and PowerPivot, but when importing data in PowerPivot, you can filter out unnecessary data to import just a subset. You can also use the PowerPivot Add-In to later apply filters to tables you already imported in Excel

Rename tables and columns as you import data in PowerPivot

Manage the model and create relationships using drag and drop in Diagram View. Relationships created in Excel can be modified in PowerPivot and vice versa

Apply formatting to columns and calculations to be persisted as the user creates PivotTables, Charts and Power View reports

Enrich the data model using Data Analysis Expressions (DAX) to author your own calculations

Define key performance indicators (KPIs)

Create user-defined hierarchies to use throughout the workbook

Define perspectives to present different subsets of the model to various users when users connects to the model after the workbook is deployed to PowerPivot for SharePoint and to limit the display of model objects to the modeler in the PowerPivot window making it easier to work with larger data models